The East Tennessee State University Marching Bucs are making history this Thanksgiving as they travel to New York City to perform in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Before they set off on this incredible journey, ETSU invites the community to join a special send-off event in honor of Tennessee’s first collegiate marching band in over 60 years to perform in the parade. 

Send-Off Event Details: 

When: Sunday, Nov. 24, from 10:45-11 p.m.  

Where: Martha Culp Avenue, in front of University School on ETSU’s main campus. 

Who: Open to all – community members, friends, family and fans are invited to show their support. 

Signs of support: Attendees are encouraged to bring noisemakers and signs of support for the send-off. Download printable signs here. 

Guided by Dr. Joe Moore, the Marching Bucs have evolved from a small ensemble to a dynamic force of over 360 musicians, proudly representing ETSU and the state of Tennessee. The send-off is a special opportunity for the community to rally behind the band, honoring their resilience and commitment – particularly in light of recent challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. Despite these hardships, the Marching Bucs have pressed forward with intense rehearsals to prepare for this remarkable occasion. 

“The band embodies the pride and spirit of ETSU,” said Dr. Joe Moore, director of the Marching Bucs. “We’re thrilled to carry that energy to New York City and show what the Marching Bucs are made of. This send-off is a wonderful way for our community to be part of this historic journey.” 

For more information on the Marching Bucs’ journey and how to watch the parade, visit etsu.edu/parade.  


ETSU wishes to thank the following sponsors: Dr. Bonny and Alan Copenhaver, ETSU Health, Bloomingdale’s, William R. Phillips and Family, City of Johnson City, Food City, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, JA Street & Associates, Inc., Dr. Nathan Emmert Eye Care, Hungate Engineering, Crown Laboratories, Melissa Steagall-Jones, Dr. Susan Epps, Thomas Perry, III, BJ King, Suzanne Huffman, Kathy Mullins, JCWA Chamber of Commerce, Bands of America, Dr. Paul Stanton, Thomas Fahres, Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc., BurWil Construction Company, and Neal and Angela Bowes.

East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.

Browse Related Stories

Stay in Touch

Follow ETSU on Social